Pattadakal Temples: Epitome of Indian Temple Architecture

So, after experiencing the rich heritage of Aihole, we headed to explore the magnificence of Pattadakal temples in Badami (Day 1 and Day 2). Got an auto and packed our self in for 45 minutes ride, at times bumpy, but enjoyable. It was hot and humid post noon but temple was buzzing with tourists, some taking a nap in the temple garden. Pattadakal, where the early Chalukyan Kings used to be crowned, is one of the three great centers of experimentation in temple-construction, the other two being Aihole and Badami. Chalukyas encouraged the artisans and craftsmen to experiment and building stone temples in different architectural styles. During this period only, rock-cut cave structures were also gradually left out and the structural temples replaced that space.

Sangamesvara Temple and Virupaksha Temple are the most important temples at Pattadakal complex, Mallikarjuna and Galaganatha temple being the other two temples. It took us around an hour to walk through the whole complex and here is a pictorial walk-through of the temples that we captured through our camera.

Pattadakal Temples Pictures

Hats off to ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) for they have done a terrific job of reviving the temples of Aihole, Pattadakal and Badami. There are old pictures of temples at information centers and museums which show the bad condition they were and how ASI have revived them, even reconstructing some of them. We captured the picture of one of those posters showing difference. Not so clear, but it will give you a glimpse of the awesome work done by ASI.

Temples Timings & Tickets

Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM (These have longer visiting hours compared to Aihole temples which open at 10 AM and close at 5 PM).

Tickets: Indian (Rs 30), Foreigners (Rs 500), Video & Camera (Rs 25)

How to reach Pattadakal

Pattadakal is on the way from Badami to Aihole. We first visited Aihole and took a shared auto from Aihole to Pattadakal (~45 minutes and Rs 20 per person). There are buses too but with low frequency. In case, you are planning to visit Pattadakal first from Badami, you can easily get a bus from Badami as frequency for this is higher compared to Badami to Aihole direct buses.

You may read more about our Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal Heritage trail exploration here :Day 1 and Day 2.